CONTROVERSIAL plans to redevelop Accrington town square have been given the go-ahead.

The proposal had been submitted to Hyndburn Council in December to redevelop the front of the market hall area in Blackburn Road.

People in the area had voiced concerns over the move, particularly in regards to the removal of trees outside the town hall.

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However the proposals were passed by 11 votes to two by the planning committee yesterday, as councillors praised the ‘brilliant’ plan.

Committee chairman Cllr Bernard Dawson said: “I welcome the idea that we could have this square.

“I know the trees are an issue for some people but I believe they have been there for more than 50 years.

“I think the plans will be a big improvement for Blackburn Road and it will really improve that area.”

The planning application for the new square, which commemorates the role of the Accrington Pals in the First World War’s Battle of the Somme, was submitted after a two-month public consultation.

Additions set to be added to the square include six duckboard benches honouring the history of the town and three small sculptures paying tribute to the Pals battalion, the industrial past of the town and Accrington Stanley.

Cllr June Harrison, who represents the Barnfield area, thinks one of the benefits the work will be an increased space for activities.

She said: “It will be good for the Blackburn Road area in full. It will make a nice area for different events to take place.

“I love the trees, but I was speaking to a neighbour and they should never have been planted there in the first place.”

The scheme is backed by £1.5million of Heritage Lottery cash and a matching amount from the council.

Cllr Paul Thompson said: “I think it’s absolutely brilliant and I’m all in favour of it.”

However not everyone was in favour of the proposals getting the go ahead.

Six objection comments had been received prior to the meeting from residents voicing complaints against these proposals.

Cllr Judith Addison said: “I do have some reservations regarding the plans. The trees are very controversial.

“I’d have concerns about incompatible use of the square. Weddings take place at the town hall now.

“How do you make sure it is needed for events?”

However ultimately the committee voted to agree with the suggestion of the planning officer’s recommendation.

The report said:”The redevelopment of the square in the manner proposed will contribute towards the creation of a high quality environment in Accrington Town Centre and complement the improvements that have already been carried out to the Town Hall and Market Hall.”